Coolant drain for carbs

Ok, I have to bite the bullet and remove and clean the carbs. It's just
not running right.
Would those experienced with stripping down the bike please give some
advice.
The service manual doesn't bother to mention it but I've got a coolant
pipe attached to the carburettors.
Do I have to drain the coolant before I can remove the carbs ?
Can I cheat by clamping the pipes ?
Will this create an airlock in the carb when I reassemble or will it
self-bleed ?
Help !
Thanks
Kevin